Originally published: November 14, 2007
Weather channel founder and meteorologist, John Coleman, made news recently by saying that all this talk about Global Warming is a “scam.” Too late, Coleman! Al Gore says the debate is over. So you and the other meteorologists who think we can benefit from more discussion might as well pack a picnic lunch and move on.
Forget for a moment which side you come down on. Some of my readers sincerely believe Global Warming is a valid threat. Others think it’s a lot of hooey. Still others believe the world may be indeed be warming but are not convinced that human beings have anything to do with it. Perhaps it’s just part of a reoccurring weather cycle which has been with us since the beginning of time.
My purpose right now is not to take a position on Global Warming but instead to react to Al Gore’s new and popular statement: “The debate is over. “ The slogan is catching on. Others are repeating this catchy little phrase with the same mindless effort as other Politically Correct mantras, strong on emotion, weak on discussion, such as, “Her body her choice” or “Straight people must be tolerant” or “All white people are racists.”
Personally, I find it chilling when there is any topic that can’t be debated. Even on matters where we have already reached conclusions, if we are really that secure in our beliefs, discussion and debate ought not to threaten us.
I am a Christian apologist. I am convinced that the existence of God can be defended scientifically and philosophically. I am also convinced that the resurrection of Christ can be verified as an historical fact. Many other events of the Bible are corroborated through archaeology. To top it off, one can actually encounter the Spirit of God as promised in the Scripture. One can actually meet God and be absolutely sure. I do not expect these words to automatically convince you. In fact, I have a great respect for thinking skeptics who are not too easily persuaded. My point is: I’m convinced. But never EVER have I refused to debate the subject. I have debated the credibility of Christianity formally in college lecture halls and on the radio with well known atheists like Dan Barker, Robert Price and the late Phil Paulson. I have debated the same subject informally over a cup of coffee at Denny’s or in a college lounge area. Why am I willing to debate something I am already sure of? Partly because I believe facts speak for themselves. Partly because I think the very best education allows students to listen to both sides.
College professors who will not permit their students to hear two sides are irresponsible. and should resign. As for others? Anybody who says that a debate is over takes the road of cowardice and simple minded thinking, even if that man has won the Nobel Prize. If the Nobel Prize committee doesn’t stand for intellectual discussion, what does it stand for? That goes for Global Warming. That goes for anything.
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